A Few Words from the Survey Systems Manager

After what seems like the ‘blink of an eye’, though in reality it’s been 20+ years, I am finally able to fulfil the SCM role I was appointed to back in 2005. After controlling the roll-out of Survey Systems on the Maersk DUC platforms in the Danish sector of the North Sea, as Senior Surveyor, and delivering some 47 offshore assets for inclusion into the SCM RISCm management system, I was appointed Survey Systems Manager.

Survey Equipment On-site

Even then the growth of SCM meant that I was often pressed back into the Senior Surveyor role, carrying out offshore fabric surveys for RISCm, applying data updates and problem solving etc. all whilst training future surveyors both on and offshore. Last year, I took on the true role of Survey Systems Manager handling the project management of our survey teams already in place, taking on a more active role on the implementation of new projects, surveyor training, site audits, sourcing personnel, client liaison and lots more.

Having been involved with the implementation of RISCm from its earliest incarnation as Project Paint, I have an in-depth knowledge in the working of the data base. This allows me to regularly contribute advice and ideas to the development team for new / better functionality, and support our Surveyors and Clients in streamlining the deployment of the tools to their Fabric Maintenance programmes. Having many years of experience in the industry comes in very useful when facing sticky challenges; there are few, if any, problems we have not seen before.

I have to travel quite a bit now as I am based in Lowestoft and our main project office is in Cramlington, but this works well as it keeps me up to date with what’s happening with software and projects development and I get the chance to talk face to face with all of the SCM team. My role now has me almost exclusively onshore based though when needs must, travel offshore in the UK and overseas is not precluded.

The role is not just about management control of personnel and logistics, but also managing our Clients expectations, helping them see the benefits of the tools we offer, and ultimately ensuring they have everything they need to get the very best out of RISCm.